The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) established a partnership with Austin, Texas in order to finance infrastructure improvement projects. The Emerging Projects Agreement focuses on Austin’s approximately $22 billion Mobility Program of Projects, a network of projects designed to improve travel throughout the region.
“The Bureau’s experts will partner with Austin officials to explore innovative approaches and best practices that can advance projects further into development and construction, so communities benefit sooner from the planned improvements,” said Build America Bureau Executive Director Morteza Farajian. “We are dealing with a large and complicated program of projects that will significantly enhance transportation mobility, resiliency, affordability, and safety. To deliver this program effectively and efficiently, we need to form a strong partnership, engage all stakeholders, use innovative approaches and best practices, and take advantage of all tools in our toolbox.”
The partnership aims to move projects in the region forward in order to reconnect communities, utilize technology to reduce traffic and pedestrian fatalities, and retain vulnerable local businesses and residents.
“The Emerging Projects Agreement creates a great opportunity for Austin to try new ideas for accelerating mobility projects in a manner that also respects our community values,” said Austin Mayor Kirk Watson. “I appreciate Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, the Build America Bureau, and our Congressional delegation for their continued support and guidance. I hope this partnership will help us deliver critical infrastructure projects more efficiently for our taxpayers.”
Under the agreement, the Build America Bureau and City of Austin will explore opportunities for innovative project planning, procurement, financing, and delivery.
The preliminary list of projects that could benefit from this partnership include:
- $250 million for Roadway Extensions, Connections, and Capacity Improvements Program to enhance safety
- $963 million for the I-35 "Cap and Switch" Program which involves new freeway caps and community stitches along 8 miles of the corridor
- $4 billion for the Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) Expansion and Development Program
The Bureau and Austin officials plan to hold a workshop to engage stakeholders, review the infrastructure needs, and help identify the potential innovative solutions next month. Both the City of Austin and USDOT consider infrastructure projects on their potential and in a manner that promotes equity and environmental justice.
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Source: USDOT
